Activist Killed in Charlottesville Car Attack

In a modest beginning, a businessman launched his venture in Boston with just $40 in capital, marking the start of a journey that would reflect the entrepreneurial spirit of the United States. This period also saw significant territorial expansions, as the U.S. acquired Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, alongside the annexation of Hawaii, shaping the nation’s geopolitical landscape. Cultural milestones emerged prominently in the 20th century, highlighted by the 1939 premiere of "The Wizard of Oz" in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, featuring Judy Garland. The music scene was also notable, as in 1966, John Lennon of the Beatles faced backlash for his controversial remark about the band's popularity, which he later retracted. Sports history was made in 1973 when Jack Nicklaus won his 14th major title, surpassing Bobby Jones' long-standing record. Technological advancements were marked by IBM's introduction of the first personal computer in 1981, revolutionizing personal and business computing. The 1984 Los Angeles Olympics attracted a record 5.5 million attendees despite a boycott, while 1985 witnessed a tragic aviation disaster when a Japan Air Lines flight crashed, resulting in 520 fatalities. In more recent years, significant events included the completion of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1993, the devastating earthquakes in Iran in 2012, and the Tianjin explosions in 2015, which claimed 173 lives. The sports world celebrated swimmer Katie Ledecky in 2016, as she became the most decorated U.S. woman athlete at a single Olympics, further enriching the tapestry of American history.